When it comes to fashion, I find the best pieces are hiding in plain sight. Sure, crustacean summer is taking over the internet, and everyone wants to dress like Dakota Johnson from Materialists. Scandi is out, Portuguese girl is in. Fun as it is, if you’re anything like me…you’re exhausted. That’s why, instead of hopping on the latest bandwagon, I’m always looking to the French for some classic style inspo, instead of scratching my head, wondering how on the good green earth I’m supposed to wear the unbuttoned jeans trend. While on my yearly jaunt to Paris this past spring, I took some extra notes—and couldn’t help but start to notice one transitional wardrobe staple everywhere.

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A striped button-down is hardly mind-blowing, but it’s a key piece that keeps a basic, classic wardrobe visually interesting. I first clocked it on a Parisian friend, who donned an oversized version with black jeans and sneakers. Despite the overall casual vibe, the button-down elevated the outfit in a way a T-should never could. Then, I went shopping at quintessential French brand Balzac, and there they were, lining the racks.

Once I returned to the States, I also noticed them everywhere. Three in the PureWow office in a single day. On Gigi Hadid. On the subway. All! Over! Wimbledon! It’s like the red car theory: once you start looking for something, you’re surrounded. 

The genius of the striped button-down is that it satisfies the CST Rule. My style leans tailored/classic, and the chief struggle I’ve had is trying to make outfits that are visually interesting, when the cuts are rather…basic. In this case, stripes can turn an otherwise standard silhouette into something visually eye-catching—whether it’s a pop of color or creating a shape for the eye to engage with. 

The best part? A button-down isn’t at the mercy of the trend cycle, and you can wear it for years to come. My favorite pairings: Untucked over jeans with flats or sneakers, French tucked into white jeans for an elevated flair or as a matching set. Opt for cotton or linen, and you’ve got a great transitional piece that’ll carry you into fall.

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